The Apple Pan

For once, this blog is going to be simple and short... just like the menu at The Apple Pan located on 10801 W. Pico Blvd. in West LA.  Although most people go there for classic burgers, I have to note that I'm a huge fan of their old fashion apple pie.  Simple.  Sweet.  Awesome.  

For more info on their menu, check them out at http://www.applepan.com/


Fresh Apple Pie ($3.50) with Vanilla Ice Cream ($1.50)

Brazilian Bossa Nova Cuisine

I have driven past Bossa Nova on 10982 W. Pico Blvd. a million times, and have never considered walking in.  Funny enough, I hang out at Westside Pavillion quite often and eat at the restaurant next door (Hop Woo) all the time!  Alas, I finally stumbled across this restaurant online and had the courage to dine there.  Here was my first thought after the meal...Why haven't I eaten here before?!!  It was sooo good!  Immediately when you sit down, you should order a dozen of the Pao de Queijo (Cheese Bread). This literally melts in your mouth!  If your out not counting calories, I would definitely recommend the Chicken Brochette appetizer made with fried chicken wrapped in bacon on a bed of gorgonzola cream sauce. I know it sounds like a heart attack waiting to happen, but its so f*ing delicious!  For dinner, the Picahna Steak served with white rice, black beans and plantain is a must.  Oddly enough, some people go there for pizza and pasta...please stick to the Brazilian menu!  Its so much better!  Two things to note: First, I suggest dining there during their happy hour (M-F, 3pm to 7pm) for discounted drinks and appetizers.  Second, keep in mind the parking is difficult :-( For more information about additional locations and the menu, check out their website at http://www.bossanovafood.com/

Pao de Queijo ($5.99)

Chicken Brochette ($8.49)

Picanha Steak ($15.99)

Steingarten LA

Let me start off by saying that Steingarten LA (10543 W. Pico Blvd.) is an AMAZING restaurant that deserves a lot more customers.  Since opening in early 2011, Steingarten hasn't seen much business despite their mouthwatering food.  Immediately when you sit down, you get a laid back vibe from their deep mahogany colors and stunning garden patio.  Similar to Wurstküche, Steingarten has a large selection of exotic sausages such as: Alligator and  Pork, Rabbit with Spirit and Duck and Bacon. Now, I'm not much of a fan of sausage, but it goes pretty well with their massive selection of beer and whiskey!  What makes this place ten times better than Wurstküche?  Their kick-ass burgers!  Let me give you the down low on my favorite burger, The Gold Prize.  This burger is rockin' with herb roasted tomatoes, caramelized onion, brie, and roasted garlic sauce.  My boyfriend's fav is the Chef's Choice with bacon, smoked mozzarella, and Steingarten mustard sauce.  If these do not sound appetizing to you, you're also welcome to design your own!  To top it all off, the 8 oz. burgers are all natural grass fed, no hormones, no antibiotics ground sirloin steak.  Plus, you get a side of parmaesan fries which you can sub with any of their side dishes.   (I recommend one person gets the fries because you get a TON!) I admit, its a calorie fest...but its so worth it!  Check them out at http://www.steingartenla.com/ for more info!

The Gold Prize ($15.00)

Chef's Choice ($14.00)

Chocolate Mousse

Natalee Thai Restaurant

When it comes to Thai food, I'm quite picky.  Given that I was raised by a Thai nanny, I rarely venture outside my kitchen when I'm craving yellow curry chicken or tom yum gai soup.  That being said, Natalee Thai Restaurant is a great spot when your in the mood for "American" Thai food.  The food is never too spicy, and the dishes are well balanced between sweet and sour flavors.  Natalee Thai offers a wide range of American favorites with a Thai theme; for example, beef salad  or avocado egg rolls.  Whenever I'm eating there, I tend to order:

1.  Tom Kha Gai Soup ($8.50) - Chicken with mushrooms, in hot and sour soup, laced with a smidgen of lemon grass and coconut milk. 

2.  Chicken Satay ($7.95) - Chicken sauteed in Thai spices and coconut juice. Served with cucumber salad and peanut sauce. 

3.  Korean BBQ Beef ($12.50) - Two thinly sliced beef marinate in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame and a touch of sake. 

4.  California Curry ($9.75) - Chicken, yellow curry, potato, carrot and coconut milk.

Let me reiterate that if your looking for authentic Thai food, this is not the restaurant for you!  Once in a while, I enjoy eating here for California infused Thai food.  Personally, I prefer the Culver City location (10101 Venice Blvd.) over the Beverly Hills location (998 S. Robertson Blvd.) because there is more space and parking.  In addition, please keep in mind this is Thai food with American prices...but I promise the food is well worth the money!